Cognitive evaluations may be requested for a multitude of reasons. Simply, cognitive tests measure a person’s general thinking and reasoning abilities. A cognitive assessment typically takes 60-90 minutes depending on the scope of the evaluation and is typically completed in single session. Included with this type of assessment is a comprehensive cognitive test as well as written report describing the results. Different areas of processing (including verbal, nonverbal, visual, short-term memory, and long-term retrieval) can be assessed in order to determine an individual’s strengths and weaknesses (a cognitive profile). Cognitive profiles can then be used to identify supports that one can utilize in order to improve daily functioning. Cognitive testing can also be requested in order to simply satisfy curiosity, or to determine eligibility for gifted and talented (GT) programs. It should be noted that school districts can vary in their acceptance of private testing in regards to GT eligibility. It is recommended that you check with your student’s school to verify their policies before scheduling this type of assessment.

Cognitive testing is also requested in conjunction with adaptive behavior (self-help) assessment in order to diagnose intellectual disabilities. Updated testing of this nature is often requested from support agencies such as the Social Security Administration to establish or maintain disability status or by community agencies to determine eligibility for support services. This type of assessment includes a cognitive evaluation as well as adaptive behavior rating scales completed by the parent, teachers, and the individual themselves (as appropriate). A thorough developmental history is also obtained.